Defense Mechanisms

Bipartisan bill introduced in the interest of American manufacturing

Ohio Republican Sens. Jon Husted and Bernie Moreno; New Jersey Democratic Sen. Andy Kim; and California Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff released statements on July 9 announcing the Defend American Manufacturing Act.

The Defend American Manufacturing Act "ensures continued federal support for local manufacturing centers through the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, protecting jobs and strengthening U.S. manufacturing," according to house.gov.

The act (H.R. 2832) was first introduced by Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS) along with Representatives Sarah McBride (D-DE) and Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) to protect and sustain the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, a federal initiative that supports small and mid-sized manufacturers across the United States and Puerto Rico. The bill was introduced in response to funding cuts under the previous administration, which threatened the continuity of MEP centers that provide technical assistance, workforce training, cybersecurity support, and market expansion strategies.

In terms of key provisions, the act directs the Secretary of Commerce, through the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to continue operating the MEP program in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. It also requires that MEP centers be renewed and awarded annually, ensuring that funding is not subject to politically motivated decisions by future administrations. Lastly, it amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to make the operation of MEP centers mandatory rather than discretionary, strengthening the program’s stability.

The MEP program has been instrumental for nearly 40 years in helping manufacturers, specifically improving efficiency and productivity, strengthening supply chains, expanding into new markets, and providing workforce development and technical support.

By securing federal funding and mandating annual renewals, the Defend American Manufacturing Act ensures that small and mid-sized manufacturers—responsible for nearly 98% of U.S. manufacturing—can continue to grow and remain competitive globally. This legislation also supports reshoring efforts and job creation, reinforcing the economic importance of domestic manufacturing. Industry leaders, including the American Small Manufacturers Coalition, have emphasized that MEP centers are vital for helping manufacturers stay competitive in the global market.